By Chloe Schneider
Primer is a relatively new concept in beauty, having only become a popular in the mainstream world of beauty in the last few years. Because of this, there are still ladies out there who aren’t entirely sure what primer is, what it does and why it has become a staple in our beauty bag. Rescu. tells all and gives the low-down on a few of our favourites.
We asked the experts at Laura Mercier for some primer tips:
RESCU: What exactly is Primer and what does it do for skin?
Laura Mercier: A serum-like gel, Primer seals in your moisturiser and provides a smooth surface for foundation.
It also keeps your make-up from being absorbed into the skin, giving your skin greater staying power throughout the day.
RESCU: When should primer be used?
Laura Mercier: Always use a Primer after your skincare and before any foundation or concealer. It can also be used on it’s own to protect from pollution and irritants in the air and to create a soft focus effect on the skin.
RESCU: What’s your favourite primer tip?
Laura Mercier: If it is warm keep your Primer in the fridge for a cooling effect.
Rescu. Reviews
There are so many primers to choose from out there so we’ve done the legwork and narrowed it down to our top six picks.
The Pioneer -Laura Mercier Foundation Primer
Laura Mercier is the pioneer in primer. Containing a soft-focus ingredient and with a beautifully smooth texture, this is a dream to put on. We loved the luminous finish and lightweight formula. Laura Mercier also has a hydrating primer for dehydrated and/or aging skin and an oil-free primer for overactive skin types so there really is something for everyone.
Available at Laura Mercier counters at selected Myer and David Jones stores nationally.
Online at www.adorebeauty.com.au ($65)
Vitamin infused- ModelCo Face Base
ModelCo have offered up a multitude of clever solutions to beauty problems and their primer is no exception. We found Face Base offered a flawless matte base on which to apply make-up. Using vitamins C and E, the formula was nourishing and left the skin feeling rehydrated and velvety.
Available at David Jones, selected independents and www.modelco.com.au ($34)
The Luxe list- Sisley Instant Perfect
Instant perfect contains Silicone Polymers which immediately fills in wrinkle and fine lines, instantly smoothing and matifying the skin. We love the Soft-focus powder particles which improve optical light diffusion, illuminating dark areas like under the eyes. The frangipani blossom extract has an astringent effect which works to minimalize pores. The Instant Perfect formula has more long-term benefits than other primers, making it worth the higher price.
Available at David Jones. ($80.00
The insider’s choice- Smashbox Photo Finish Foundation Primer
Smashbox offer their original formula along with an oil-free primer both of which meet the perfecting needs of a photo shoot. Using vitamins A & E, grape seed extract and green tea, we found this formula to increase the longevity of foundation most successfully. It leaves a velvety smooth finish and has a convenient pump that dishes out the perfect amount of primer.
Available at kit stores, Myer and www.kitcosmetics.com ($52.95)
The long lasting magic potion – Avon Magix Face Perfector
Avon uses a gel-powder formula that leaves skin looking brighter, smoother and refreshed. It uses an exclusive Optix light diffusing technology to illuminate the skin, is incredibly flattering and keeps shine away while keeping make-up on for up to ten hours.
Available through Avon Representatives nationwide. Call 1800 646 000 or visit www.avon.com.au ($39.99)
The Soothing solution – Napoleon Auto Pilot Pre-foundation Skin Primer
Featuring Chamomile, Yarrow extract and vitamin E, Napoleon’s primer will heal and calm the skin to promote suppleness and smooth the skins texture. Auto pilot is formulated to create a smooth base which your make-up will automatically glide over leaving beautiful, bright, smooth and relaxed skin. Napoleon Perdis recommends mixing primer with a little bit on bronzer for an undetectable no make-up look.
Available in Napoleon stores, David Jones and www.napoleonperdis.com ($49.50)
Header image source: laura mercier.
